CORNWALL, Ontario – It’s a big day for Sean Cowan.
But they’re all big when you’re a 12-year-old battling leukemia.
Schools across the region helped to mark the birthday for the young Eamer’s Corners Public School pupil Thursday, including what appeared to be much of the student population at CCVS on Sydney Street.
Dozens of students unfurled a massive banner wishing Sean Well, and sang ‘Happy Birthday’ in honour of the young fellow who has captured hearts throughout the region.
“This has really gone viral,” said Heather Latreille, a student success teacher at CCVS, who added word is spreading fast online. “Even people from Australia are posting things.”
Sean’s family is trying to convince Hershey’s to add a yellow option to their popular “Kiss” candy.
So far hundreds of letters and numerous e-mails have been sent to Hershey Canada.
A ‘Yellow Kisses for Sean’ Facebook page is incredibly popular online.
CCVS resource teacher Fiona Frigault said teachers and students can often be found talking about Sean and his condition.
“Within the board there have been numerous people participating in things,” she said.
A Facebook post on March 4 said Sean is in remission and his treatment regime is on the right track. It also noted that his next round of treatments began last month and he will be splitting his time between the hospital, Ronald MacDonald House, and home.
According to the Facebook page, if all goes as hoped following the next six months, Sean will have at least another three years of taking oral chemotherapy treatments and regular tests to ensure that the cancer does not re-occur.
The colour yellow was chosen for the campaign because of the brave statement made by Sean’s mom, Susan, when he was first diagnosed: “When life gives you lemons, I guess you make lemonade.”
